Advantages of Soldered Keyboards for Typing Professionals

Writers, encoders, journalists, reporters, salesmen---these typing professionals want a dependable keyboard that can take a pounding as they type their reports, charts, and literary work.

Standard soldered mechanical keyboards are perfect for the most furious typing. The firm attachment of each key switch to the PCB guarantees durability that surpasses that of hot-swappable counterparts. The exceptional build of a soldered keyboard ensures precision and stability, making it an integral tool for typists. Additionally, the various innovative key switches provide auditory feedback and a pleasing tactile response.

If you're a professional typist seeking top-tier equipment, get a standard soldered mechanical keyboard. There's a whole world of features and benefits you can gain from this device.

How Do Soldered Keyboards Differ from Hot-Swappable Keyboards?

There are two mechanical keyboards to choose from: standard soldered mechanical keyboards and hot-swappable keyboards. They differ mainly in the way their key switches are mounted onto the keyboard's printed circuit board (PCB) or plate.

1. Soldered Keyboards
   • The key switches are directly soldered onto the PCB. This means the switches are fixed in place and cannot be easily removed without desoldering.
   • This setup provides a more stable and permanent connection between the switches and the PCB, which can result in a more durable keyboard overall.
   • Replacing or swapping out switches requires desoldering the existing switches, which can be time-consuming and may require special equipment and skills.
2. Hot-Swappable Keyboards
   • The switches are mounted onto removable sockets on the PCB rather than being soldered directly.
   • Because of their design, switches can easily be removed and replaced without the need to solder or desolder components. This allows for quick, safe, and hassle-free customization of the keyboard.
   • Swappable keyboards offer greater flexibility and versatility in terms of switch selection, allowing users to experiment with different switch types, brands, and combinations.
   • The connection between the switches and the PCB in swappable keyboards may not be as secure or stable as soldered connections, potentially leading to a slightly less robust keyboard overall.

Why Professionals Should Consider Soldered Mechanical Keyboards For Typing

For professionals who spend a considerable amount of time typing, the solid reliability and stability of soldered mechanical keyboards are worth considering. 

1. Durability and Reliability: Soldered mechanical keyboards typically offer a more robust and durable construction compared to their hot-swappable counterparts. With switches directly soldered onto the PCB, there are fewer points of failure.
2. Consistency: Soldered keyboards often provide a more consistent typing feel because the switches are firmly attached to the PCB. This consistency can be important for professionals who require precise and reliable keystrokes such as writers, programmers, or data entry specialists.
3. Reduced Maintenance: Since the switches are soldered onto the PCB, there's no need for regular maintenance or worry about switches becoming loose or misaligned over time. 
4. Lower Latency: Soldered keyboards may offer lower latency compared to swappable keyboards because there's no additional socket between the switch and the PCB. 
5. Simplicity: While swappable keyboards offer more flexibility in terms of switch customization, some professionals may prefer the simplicity and uniformity of a soldered keyboard. 
6. Professional Aesthetics: Soldered keyboards often have a sleeker and more professional appearance compared to some swappable keyboards. This aesthetic appeal can be important for professionals who value the overall look and feel of their workspace.

Best Switches for Typing

The best mechanical switches for typing depend on personal preference including typing style, desired tactile feedback, and noise tolerance. However, several popular switches are commonly recommended for typing due to their characteristics.

1. Cherry MX Brown: Cherry MX Brown switches are a popular choice for typing because they offer a tactile bump without an audible click. They provide a balance between typing comfort and gaming performance.
2. Cherry MX Blue: Cherry MX Blue switches have distinctive tactile feedback and audible clicks with each key press. Typists who enjoy the tactile bump and audible feedback often prefer MX Blues.
3. Cherry MX Clear: Cherry MX Clear switches offer a heavier tactile bump compared to MX Brown switches, providing a more pronounced feedback sensation. 
4. Topre switches: Topre switches have a unique electrostatic capacitive design, providing a smooth and cushioned typing experience. They offer a tactile bump and a silent operation, making them suitable for office environments where noise is a concern.
5. Kailh BOX switches: Kailh BOX switches come in various types, including BOX Brown and BOX White, which offer tactile feedback without the audible click. They are designed with a dust- and spill-resistant housing.
6. Zealios switches: Zealios switches, particularly Zealios V2, are favored for their smooth tactile bump and consistent typing feel. They are available in different weights to accommodate various typing preferences.
7. Gateron switches: Gateron switches are often considered budget-friendly alternatives to Cherry MX switches, offering similar characteristics. Gateron Browns and Gateron Clears are particularly popular for typing due to their tactile feedback and smooth keystrokes.

Conclusion

Don't be swayed by the engineering of hot-swappable keyboards. Your standard soldered mechanical keyboard will do just fine when typing. It provides unmatched dependability, affordability, and durability. They're engineered to stand up to heavy typing, reducing switch breakdowns.

With an extensive selection of switch types and some soldering skill, you can customize your mechanical keyboard however you want.